BORO will be aiming to take advantage of any off-the-field distractions as Sheffield United’s week of dug-out drama took another turn.

The Blades will go into Sunday’s FA Cup fifth round clash at Bramall Lane under new management as Kevin Blackwell took charge today after Bryan Robson walked out.

The under-fire former Boro boss quit the club after refusing to be moved upstairs.

His exit, along with assistant Brian Kidd, after just nine months and nine wins in 32 games followed a decision by chairman Kevin McCabe to relieve him of first team duties after the team drifted out of the play-off chase amid rising support discontent and falling crowds.

McCabe said: “I was keen to see Bryan Robson take up a head of football role but, regrettably, this was not to be and so he departs - along with Brian Kidd - with the best wishes of all at the club.

“Supporters should not underestimate the sterling and dedicated expertise and time put in by them in overhauling the whole of the football divisions.”

Robson was swiftly replaced by former Leeds and Luton boss Blackwell, a one-time assistant to Neil Warnock. He remains popular with fans and is credited with a key role in the success of 2002-03 when they reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup and League Cup as well as the play-offs final.

Blackwell said: “I had some of my best times here. It helped build my reputation as a coach. It’s a stable club, something I’ve desperately missed since I left and the fans here are as passionate as can be.”

Kevin McCabe said: “Kevin is in until the end of the season when we will take stock. He knows the situation and knows how determined we are to take this club forward.”